Tree Surgeons: Life Among the Branches

Tree surgeons, or arborists as they're formally known, lead a life that combines the expertise of a biologist, the agility of an acrobat, and the endurance of a marathon runner. Their day-to-day routines are a mix of meticulous planning, unexpected challenges, and rewarding moments that are as diverse as the trees they care for.

Morning Call to the Canopy

The day for a tree surgeon often starts early, with a strong cup of coffee and a quick check of the weather forecast. It's crucial to know what the sky has planned – after all, nobody wants to be dangling from a tree when a storm rolls in. Equipped with harnesses, ropes, chainsaws, and an array of other tools that could make a medieval knight envious, they head out to their first job.

Climbing trees isn't just for kids. Arborists use specialized techniques to ascend, often employing a system of ropes and pulleys. It's part gymnastics, part rock climbing, and entirely exhausting. But the view from the top? Unbeatable. Just don't look down if you're afraid of heights.

The Unexpected Guest: Wildlife Encounters

One of the more unpredictable aspects of tree surgery is the local wildlife. Imagine this: you're 50 feet up a tree, delicately pruning a branch, when a curious squirrel decides to investigate your gear. Or perhaps an indignant owl, rudely awoken from its daytime slumber, gives you a piece of its mind. These encounters add a touch of excitement – and occasionally chaos – to the job.

Tree surgeons have learned to expect the unexpected. They might discover a beehive hidden in a hollow trunk or a nest of baby birds in a precarious position. In such cases, the job transforms into a rescue mission, ensuring the safety of the critters before continuing with the task at hand.

Precision and Patience: Pruning and Trimming

Pruning is not just about hacking away at branches. It requires a deep understanding of tree biology. Each cut must be strategic, promoting the tree's health while also considering aesthetics. It's a bit like giving the tree a haircut, but instead of dealing with split ends, you're managing the plant's overall wellbeing.

This part of the job demands a keen eye and steady hand. One wrong move can damage the tree or, worse, send a heavy branch crashing down in the wrong direction. It's a mix of art and science, with a hefty dose of patience.

Facing the Giants: Tree Felling

Sometimes, trees become hazardous and need to be removed. Felling a tree is no small feat and involves careful planning to ensure safety. Tree surgeons must calculate the angle of the cut, the tree's weight distribution, and its potential impact on the surrounding area. It's like playing a giant game of Jenga, except if the pieces fall the wrong way, it could be disastrous.

There's a certain rush that comes with this task. The moment the tree starts to fall, there's a mix of exhilaration and relief – a triumphant confirmation that all the calculations were correct and the job was executed flawlessly.

Ground-Level Grit: Cleanup and Maintenance

Once the heavy lifting is done, the less glamorous part begins – cleaning up. Fallen branches, sawdust, and debris need to be cleared away. It's a tedious but essential part of the process, ensuring the site is safe and tidy. Arborists are as comfortable with a rake and broom as they are with a chainsaw.

Maintenance of equipment is another critical aspect. Chainsaws need sharpening, ropes inspected for wear, and harnesses checked for safety. These tools are the lifeline of a tree surgeon, and their upkeep is non-negotiable. It's a labor of love that ensures every job can be tackled with confidence.

Wrapping Up: Reflecting on the Day

As the sun sets and the day winds down, tree surgeons reflect on their work. It's a profession that demands physical strength, technical skill, and a love for the outdoors. Despite the challenges and occasional dangers, the rewards are significant. There's a deep satisfaction in knowing that their efforts help maintain the natural beauty and health of our environment.

Tree surgery is not just a job – it's a way of life. Each day brings new adventures, surprises, and the chance to make a tangible difference. For those who dare to climb, the rewards are as high as the branches they reach.

Article kindly provided by londontreesurgeons.co.uk